Law enforcement plays a critical role in keeping our communities safe, however navigating police encounters can be intimidating and scary, especially if you are unaware of the rights you have. Knowing your rights and exercising is the foundation of our legal system and are in place to protect the citizens of this county. As a college student you may have never been taught what to do in an encounter with the police. Here are some helpful tips and reminders of your rights should you be interacting with a police officer.
Tips:
- Always be calm and respectful when talking to a police officer. This is the best way you can be in control. If you are respecting them, they are more likely to respect you.
- Write everything down that you remember: badge numbers, car numbers, traffic stop details, etc.
- Do not run away from or resist the police. This can get you arrested.
- If your rights have been violated, file a complaint with the agency’s internal affairs division.
- If you’re pulled over in a car put both your hands on the steering wheel.
- If you are a non-citizen, discuss your citizenship only with your lawyer.
Here are rights that you should be mindful of if you should be interacting with a police officer:
- You have the right to remain silent. Do not lie to a police officer and do not reveal anything that is self-incriminating. The best way to avoid saying something that could get you in trouble, is by not saying anything at all or telling them simply you are exercising your 5th amendment right.
- You have the right to decline a search on yourself, your vehicle or home. If you decline, simply say “I do not consent to a search.”
- You have the right to calmly leave if you’re not under arrest. Ask before you leave by saying “Am I okay to leave?”
- If you are under arrest, you have the right to a lawyer. If in that circumstance, ask for a lawyer immediately.
With these tips in mind, this will minimize risk and escalation for both you and the police officer. Remember their goal is to maintain public safety and preserve law and order; do your part in exercising your rights to fully use the protections intended for us. Ensure your own liberty!
(Source: https://www.naacp.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Racial_Profiling_Know_Your_Rights_Supplement_6-12-12.pdf)
